Fixing a Dripping Bathtub Faucet

Water waste is more than just an annoyance; it is a persistent drain on your utility bill and a slow enemy to your plumbing fixtures. A dripping faucet is almost always caused by a failing internal seal or a mineral-crusted cartridge that has lost its ability to create a watertight connection when turned off. Repairing this yourself is a rite of passage for any homeowner. You do not need to call a professional for a task that primarily involves unscrewing a handle and swapping out a small rubber component. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you will stop the drip in less than an hour and save yourself the cost of a service call.

1. Cut the Water Supply. Locate the water shut-off valves for your bathroom or the main supply for the house. Turn them clockwise until they are fully closed, then open the bathtub faucet to drain any remaining pressure in the lines.
2. Pop the Handle Free. Pry off the decorative cap on the handle using a flathead screwdriver to reveal the center screw. Unscrew it, pull the handle off, and set it aside in a safe spot.
3. Pull the Cartridge Out. Use a deep-well socket wrench to unscrew the packing nut or retaining clip holding the cartridge in place. Pull the cartridge straight out of the valve body using pliers if it resists.
4. Scrub the Valve Body. Look inside the valve body for any remaining rubber O-rings or flat washers that might have stayed behind. Clean out any scale or debris using a soft nylon brush and white vinegar.
5. Seat the New Cartridge. Slide the new cartridge into the valve body, ensuring it seats perfectly in the internal grooves. Reinstall the retaining nut or clip and tighten it firmly, but avoid overtightening to prevent cracking the housing.
6. Verify the Leak Stops. Replace the handle and screw, turn the water supply back on slowly, and check for leaks. Let the faucet run for a few seconds to flush out air before shutting it off to verify the drip is gone.